Best Birding Destination

Madera Canyon

Staff Pick

Many Tucsonans may not know it, but southeastern Arizona has been billed as the third-best birding location in the U.S. since WildBird Magazine said it was in a 1996 article. Madera Canyon was no doubt at the heart of that declaration. Home to more than 230 unique species including the illusive elegant trogan and flame-colored tanager, as well as various species of hawks, hummingbirds, owls, turkeys and more, serious bird nerds from around the nation flock to the three lodging facilities in the Canyon during peak migratory seasons. Bog Springs Campground can host an additional 13 parties, but burn regulations often apply seasonally. So grab your binoculars and learn to whistle—this may just be your "big year."